
Gold-plated ladies wristwatch by Elgin
History
Elgin National Watch Company, founded in 1864 in Elgin, Illinois, was one of America's most prominent watchmakers until its closure in 1968. The company produced millions of timepieces ranging from pocket watches to wristwatches, earning a reputation for quality and affordability. This cushion-case ladies watch with expansion bracelet represents typical mid-20th century American watchmaking, when Elgin was transitioning from traditional mechanical movements to more modern designs. Vintage Elgin watches appeal to collectors of American horology and those who appreciate mid-century design aesthetics. These timepieces are valued for their historical significance as products of one of America's great watch manufacturers, their reliable movements, and their elegant yet accessible styling. Collectors of vintage ladies watches particularly seek well-preserved examples in original presentation boxes, as they represent an era when even modestly priced timepieces were presented as cherished gifts.
Origin
Elgin, Illinois, United States
Maker
Elgin National Watch Company
Time period
circa 1960-1970